The under-construction Vizag-Raipur expressway, a major infrastructure project aimed at boosting connectivity between andhra pradesh and Chhattisgarh, is set to pass through a significant stretch of forested land. While such projects are essential for economic development and regional integration, they often come at a steep ecological cost. india has already lost approximately 7% of its forest cover since 2000, a troubling statistic given the country’s rich biodiversity. The expressway cutting through forest areas could further exacerbate this loss, impacting the delicate balance of these ecosystems.

One of the most alarming consequences of this kind of development is the increase in human-wildlife conflict. As forests shrink and become fragmented due to highways, railways, and urban expansion, wild animals are forced to stray into human settlements in search of food, water, and territory. This leads to unfortunate encounters that can be deadly for both people and wildlife. Ironically, while forest land is vanishing, the population of many wild animal species is slowly recovering due to conservation efforts. Without adequate space to roam, these growing populations will face heightened stress, leading to more frequent and dangerous conflicts.

To mitigate these issues, it is imperative that projects like the Vizag-Raipur expressway incorporate wildlife-friendly infrastructure, such as underpasses, overpasses, and green corridors. These structures allow animals to cross roads safely, maintaining their natural migration and movement patterns without coming into contact with traffic. Countries like the netherlands and canada have successfully implemented such measures, drastically reducing roadkill and promoting coexistence. india, too, has seen positive results from similar interventions near national parks and reserves. Building underpasses along the expressway isn’t just an ecological necessity—it’s a moral and practical responsibility that balances progress with preservation.
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G GOWTHAM

24/06/2025 12:10 PM